Ed McMahon Biography: Books, TV Shows, Awards, Net Worth, Age, Family, Death, Height, Wife, Children

Ed McMahon was an American television personality, comedian, and announcer best known for his role as Johnny Carson‘s sidekick on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.

For over 30 years, McMahon‘s booming voice and signature catchphrase, “Heeere’s Johnny!”, became synonymous with late-night television.

Beyond The Tonight Show, he was also known for hosting Star Search, co-hosting TV’s Bloopers & Practical Jokes, and serving as the longtime spokesperson for Publishers Clearing House.

Profile

• Full Name: Edward Leo Peter McMahon Jr.
• Nickname: Ed McMahon
• Date of Birth: March 6, 1923
• Age at Death: 86 years
• Gender: Male
• Place of Birth: Detroit, Michigan, USA
• State of Origin: Michigan
• Nationality: American
• Profession: Television Host, Announcer, Comedian, Actor, Spokesperson
• Height: 6 feet 3 inches (191 cm)
• Parents: Edward Leo Peter McMahon Sr. (father), Eleanor McMahon (mother)
• Siblings: N/A
• Spouse(s): Alyce Ferrill (m. 1945–1976, divorced), Victoria Valentine (m. 1976–1989, divorced), Pamela Hurn (m. 1992–2009, his death)
• Children: 6 (including Claudia McMahon, Katherine McMahon, and Lex McMahon)
• Relationship Status: Married at the time of his passing
• Religion: Roman Catholic
• Ethnicity: White (Irish descent)
• Net Worth at Death: Approx. $2 million

Early Life and Education

Ed McMahon, now posthumously at the age of 102, was born on March 6, 1923, in Detroit, Michigan, but grew up in Lowell, Massachusetts. His father, Edward Sr., was a businessman, and his mother, Eleanor, was a homemaker. McMahon developed an early interest in entertainment and broadcasting, working as a carnival barker and bingo caller as a teenager.

He attended Boston College before enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II, where he served as a fighter pilot. After the war, he continued his education at The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., earning a degree in speech and drama.

Personal Life

McMahon was married three times and had six children. He was known for his warm personality and close friendships, particularly with Johnny Carson. Outside of television, he was actively involved in philanthropy, supporting causes related to veterans, children’s charities, and the arts.

Despite his long and lucrative career, McMahon struggled financially later in life, facing foreclosure on his home in 2008. However, he remained a beloved public figure until his passing in 2009.

Career

McMahon‘s career took off in the 1950s when he hosted game shows and local television programs. However, his big break came in 1957 when he was hired as the announcer for Who Do You Trust?, hosted by Johnny Carson. When Carson was selected to replace Jack Paar on The Tonight Show in 1962, he brought McMahon along as his announcer and sidekick.

For the next 30 years, McMahon played a key role in The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, introducing Carson with his iconic “Heeere’s Johnny!” and engaging in witty banter. His deep voice, laughter, and camaraderie with Carson became essential elements of the show’s success.

Beyond The Tonight Show, McMahon hosted and co-hosted several popular TV programs, including:

Star Search (1983–1995) – A talent competition show that launched the careers of many famous artists, including Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake, and Beyoncé.

TV’s Bloopers & Practical Jokes (1984–1998) – Co-hosted with Dick Clark, featuring humorous mistakes from television and prank segments.

American Family Publishers – Although often mistaken for Publishers Clearing House, McMahon was the face of AFP’s sweepstakes commercials for years. He was also a highly sought-after commercial spokesperson, appearing in ads for Budweiser, Alpo dog food, and mortgage companies.

Awards and Recognition

• Hollywood Walk of Fame (1986) – Star for his contributions to television.
• Emmy Awards – Multiple nominations for his television work.
• Veterans Honors – Recognized for his service in the U.S. Marine Corps.
• Broadcasting & Cable Hall of Fame (2004)

Net Worth

Despite earning millions over his career, McMahon faced financial struggles in his later years. At the time of his death, his estimated net worth was around $2 million, partly due to a 2008 foreclosure crisis that nearly cost him his home.

Death

Ed McMahon passed away on June 23, 2009, at the age of 86. He had suffered from several health issues, including bone cancer, pneumonia, and other complications.

His passing marked the end of an era in American television, as he remained one of the most iconic announcers and TV personalities of all time.

Social Media

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Filmography

• The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson (1962–1992)
• Star Search (1983–1995)
• TV’s Bloopers & Practical Jokes (1984–1998)
• Bewitched (2005)
• Fun with Dick and Jane (1977)

Books

McMahon authored several books, including:

• Here’s Johnny! (2005) – A memoir about his time with Johnny Carson.
• When Television Was Young (2007) – A nostalgic look at early TV history.